Background and Rationale 

Bioengineering's potential contribution to slope stability maintenance and road construction and maintenance in Bangladesh has been known for some time. This contribution was recognized as a nature-based solution (NBS). As a consequence, engineers need to understand and contribute to the implementation of NBS bioengineering works and their effective maintenance. 

To support this initiative, ADB’s technical assistance “REG: Protecting and Investing in Natural Capital in Asia and the Pacific” (TA-9461), administered by the Environment Thematic Group (ETG), conducted bioengineering training with the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED) of Bangladesh. The intervention was to help mainstream NBS through roadside bioengineering in government policies to inform and complement overall project design and implementation. With associated engineering options, roadside bioengineering can increase the resilience of roads to extreme climatic events by providing the surface protection of roadside slopes and riverbanks. 

Target Participation 

This training has been designed to provide the knowledge and skills in bioengineering required by Engineers in the LGED and staff engaged in other work on unstable slopes. It does not seek to provide them with all the skills and answers but to give them the basic knowledge of bioengineering, enabling them to conduct their work more effectively. A range of reference materials will be provided during the training, and further references will be indicated. This material will enable them to research and take forward what they have learned in bioengineering. The training course is designed for Managers and Field Engineers. ADB staff and consultants are welcome to attend and observe the training. 

Objective and Key Takeaways